In the evocative words of Coleman Barks, "People are going back and forth across the doorsill where the two worlds touch. The door is round and open." This imagery invites us to contemplate the liminal space between two realms: the known and the unknown, the material and the spiritual. The significance of this threshold is profound, as it represents a point of transformation where we can engage with both worlds, allowing for a deeper understanding of our existence and the mysteries that lie beyond our immediate perception.
To traverse this threshold is to embrace the fluidity of life, where the boundaries between our everyday experiences and the deeper spiritual truths begin to blur. Barks' use of the word "round" suggests an infinite possibility, an openness that invites exploration rather than confinement. This notion of an open door encourages us to step beyond our habitual patterns and engage with the richness of life that exists at the intersection of the tangible and the transcendent. It is here, in this sacred space, that we can discover the essence of our being and the interconnectedness of all things.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery of a "doorsill" evokes a physical threshold, a place where one must pause before entering another realm. The act of going "back and forth" suggests a dynamic movement, a dance between two worlds that are not entirely separate but rather interwoven. The choice of the word "round" to describe the door implies a sense of wholeness and continuity, inviting us to consider that this threshold is not merely a barrier but a gateway to deeper understanding and connection. The open door symbolizes an invitation to explore, to question, and to engage with the mysteries that lie beyond our immediate perception.
Diving deeper into the metaphor, we can see that the "two worlds" represent not only the physical and spiritual realms but also the dualities within ourselves—our fears and hopes, our desires and our callings. The act of crossing the threshold can be seen as a journey of self-discovery, where we confront our limitations and embrace our potential. This movement between worlds is not just a physical act but a spiritual one, encouraging us to seek balance and harmony in our lives as we navigate the complexities of existence.
In the speaker's tradition
Coleman Barks, as a translator of Rumi's poetry, draws from the rich tradition of Sufism, which emphasizes the importance of the inner journey toward divine love and understanding. In Sufi thought, the concept of "fana," or the annihilation of the self, resonates deeply with the idea of crossing thresholds. This annihilation is not a loss but a transformation, allowing the seeker to transcend the ego and experience unity with the divine. The open door serves as a metaphor for this transformative process, inviting us to let go of our attachments and step into a greater reality.
Moreover, the Sufi practice of "dhikr," or remembrance of God, aligns beautifully with the imagery presented in Barks' quote. Just as the door is open, so too is the heart when engaged in the practice of remembrance. In this state, we find ourselves oscillating between the mundane and the sacred, experiencing the divine presence in our everyday lives. Rumi's poetry often reflects this interplay, as he invites us to recognize the divine in the ordinary, urging us to embrace the threshold where the two worlds meet.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching might resonate: a person standing at a career crossroads, feeling the pull of two distinct paths. One path represents security and familiarity, while the other beckons with the promise of passion and purpose. The act of standing at this threshold can be daunting, yet it is also an opportunity for profound growth. By acknowledging the tension between these two worlds, the individual can begin to explore their true desires and motivations, ultimately making a choice that aligns with their authentic self.
In relationships, the concept of the open door can manifest in moments of conflict or misunderstanding. When two individuals find themselves at odds, they stand at a threshold where communication and empathy can either flourish or falter. By approaching this moment with an open heart and a willingness to listen, both parties can navigate the complexities of their emotions and find common ground. This practice of crossing the threshold together fosters deeper connection and understanding, allowing love to flourish even in challenging times.
A reflection
As we contemplate Barks' profound words, we are invited to reflect on our own thresholds. What doors are open in our lives, and which ones remain closed? In what ways do we oscillate between the known and the unknown, and how can we embrace the fluidity of our existence? Consider this contemplative question: How might stepping through an open door lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world?
